Topic: Welcome Circles

Sep 9, 2022

When Mohammed and his family arrived in the U.S. last year after being evacuated from Afghanistan, they were assigned to a Welcome Circle: nine volunteers from a Baltimore-area synagogue tasked with helping them settle into a new life. The experience proved to be transformational for everyone involved.

Aug 15, 2022

In the year since the fall of Kabul, HIAS has resettled over 4,300 Afghans through the tireless efforts of its staff, resettlement partners, and volunteers. But the work to ensure that Afghan evacuees are able to build new lives in the U.S. is not finished yet.

May 25, 2022

Experts from HIAS and JFNA explained how individuals and communities can welcome those fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The May 23 webinar, “Welcome in Action: Jewish Community Support for Ukrainian Newcomers” also previewed the upcoming launch of HIAS Welcome Circles for Ukrainians.

Apr 29, 2022

After just a few months of living in the U.S., Afghans resettled by Welcome Circles are navigating how to observe Ramadan in their new homes – and Welcome Circles are learning how best to support them.

Feb 16, 2022

Afghan families have started to arrive at HIAS Welcome Circles, a network of synagogues and local Jewish organizations taking on the responsibility of resettling refugees in their communities.

Nov 17, 2021

Together with partners in the American Jewish community, HIAS is launching a network of what it hopes will be at least 100 sponsorship circles. Through these Welcome Circles, HIAS plans to resettle between 500 to 1,000 Afghan refugees in communities across the country.